By Nhlakanipho Mnqayi
Tourism Grading Council South Africa (TGCSA) has officially graded the Oyster Box hotel as a 5-Star Premium hotel.
This major announcement was made at the headquarters of Oyster Box in uMhlanga, North of Durban today. The hotel which overlooks the Indian Ocean and Durban’s famous Lighthouse, boasts 86 rooms and suites that are individually decorated.
Addressing the media, TGCSA Chief Quality Assurance Officer, Ms Bronwen Auret, said that the hotel now joins the ranks of only 23 properties in the whole of South Africa.
“The Oyster Box is more than just a hotel. It is a symbol of heritage, luxury and service excellence. On the uMhlanga coastline, this property has welcomed guests for decades and it has consistently received global recognition, not just from the Tourism Grading Council South Africa,” said Auret.
She added that Oyster Box is a proud representative of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) hospitality excellence.
“Today’s recognition is special because the Oyster Box joins an elite group of only 23 establishments in South Africa that have attained a 5-Star Premium status. It is one of the two premium status establishments in the entire KZN and Oyster stands proudly amongst them,” she explained.
Speaking on behalf of the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverend Musa Zondi, marked this as a moment of exceptional achievement in the province.
“We mark the conferral of premium 5-Star status upon the Oyster Box, the recognition reserved for only 23 properties across South Africa. This accolade is not only a testament to the excellence and enduring legacy of Oyster Box, but a reflection of KwaZulu-Natal working class standards, the warmth of our people and sophistication of our hospitality,” Zondi said.
He further added that Oyster Box is a living piece of Durban coastal heritage. A place that has for decades captured the essence of elegance, comfort and timeless service.
